Kidney Stones

Question 1

where do kidney stones usually form and sit

Answer 1

form in renal pelvises of the kidney (where 2 or 3 major calyces meet)

sit in the vesico-ureteric junction (most distal portion of the ureter- where it meets the bladder)

Question 2

what are the 4 types of renal stone

Answer 2

Caclium oxalate- most common

uric acid

struvite

cysteine

Question 3

what are the 3 names for kidney stones

Answer 3

renal calculi

urolithiasis

nephrolithiasis

Question 4

how do renal stones present

Answer 4

acute, colicky flank pain

often associated n and v

haematuria (typically non-visible)

Question 5

what are the DDs for a kidney stone

Answer 5

pyelonephritis

ruptures AAA

bowel obstruction

biliary pathology

lower lobe pneumonia

Question 6

how do you investigate a kidney stone

Answer 6

Gold= non-contrast CT scan of the renal tract

urine dip-> haematuria

blood tests:

• FBC/ CRP for infection
• U and Es for renal function

USS
Xray (doesnt show uric stones)

Question 7

how do you manage renal stones

Answer 7

NSAIDs and antiemetics

should pass on its own

can put a stent in if obstructive

note that patients will likely be dehydrated